Hong Kong SAR: Old Hong Kong Identity Cards to Be Invalidated in Phases by 2025
June 24, 2024
The government of Hong Kong SAR recently announced that they will invalidate Hong Kong identity cards issued before November 26, 2018, in two phases by 2025. Phase I will cover individuals born in 1970 or after, whose cards will become invalid on May 12, 2025. Phase II will cover individuals born in 1969 or before, with their cards becoming invalid on October 12, 2025. This new policy covers all permanent and non-permanent Hong Kong residents. Residents can apply for replacement new identity cards at the Registration of Persons (ROP) - Kwun Tong (Temporary) Office or during extended service hours at four designated ROP offices: Hong Kong Office, Kowloon Office, Tseung Kwan O Office, or Tuen Mun Office. Individuals who are outside Hong Kong SAR during the specified call-up periods should replace their identity cards within 30 days of their return. Additionally, the aged, blind, or infirm who cannot attend registration due to health concerns may apply for a Certificate of Exemption instead of a new identity card. Individuals who do not obtain a new identity card without a reasonable excuse can be fined up to HKD 5,000. However, the invalidation will not affect the right to live and work in Hong Kong SAR unless the holder has lost permanent resident status, although it may restrict their ability to use the e-channel at the Hong Kong airport.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen
Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses how Qatar is implementing a strategic vision to develop a workforce that is prepared for future challenges and opportunities, highlighting the role of skilled migration in addressing gaps in the local workforce.
Media mentions
Partners Aaron Blumberg and Daniel Pierce discuss the SEVIS reversal and the continued challenges US international students may face.
Video
Practice Leader Kate Praphakornphiphat discusses Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa—officially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)—and how you can apply for it.
Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explains that children of H-1B visa holders must secure a new legal status or leave the US when their H-4 dependent visas expire at age 21.
Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner discusses unusual biometrics requests in H-1B and I-140 cases, noting they depart from standard practice.
Blog post
Regional Immigration Manager David Makau provides essential information about the launch of Bahrain's new Golden Visa portal, highlighting key details for applicants.
Video
Partner Diana Quintas shares everything you need to know about Brazil’s Digital Nomad Visa – a great option for remote workers looking to live and work in Brazil.
Media mentions
Partner Haseena Enu discussed her role in a pilot program mentoring Afghan legal professionals as they rebuild their careers in the US.
Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explained that SEVIS terminations are creating uncertainty for international students in the US and their employers.
Media mentions
Partner Amy Cococcia discusses the impact of tightened US immigration policies on work visa processing.
Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner comments on USCIS’s atypical RFEs citing “adverse information” in employment-based petitions.
Blog post
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how obtaining a business investor permit in Luxembourg can provide significant opportunities for accessing European markets and fostering business growth.
Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses how Qatar is implementing a strategic vision to develop a workforce that is prepared for future challenges and opportunities, highlighting the role of skilled migration in addressing gaps in the local workforce.
Media mentions
Partners Aaron Blumberg and Daniel Pierce discuss the SEVIS reversal and the continued challenges US international students may face.
Video
Practice Leader Kate Praphakornphiphat discusses Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa—officially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)—and how you can apply for it.
Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explains that children of H-1B visa holders must secure a new legal status or leave the US when their H-4 dependent visas expire at age 21.
Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner discusses unusual biometrics requests in H-1B and I-140 cases, noting they depart from standard practice.
Blog post
Regional Immigration Manager David Makau provides essential information about the launch of Bahrain's new Golden Visa portal, highlighting key details for applicants.
Video
Partner Diana Quintas shares everything you need to know about Brazil’s Digital Nomad Visa – a great option for remote workers looking to live and work in Brazil.
Media mentions
Partner Haseena Enu discussed her role in a pilot program mentoring Afghan legal professionals as they rebuild their careers in the US.
Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg explained that SEVIS terminations are creating uncertainty for international students in the US and their employers.
Media mentions
Partner Amy Cococcia discusses the impact of tightened US immigration policies on work visa processing.
Media mentions
Partner Kevin Miner comments on USCIS’s atypical RFEs citing “adverse information” in employment-based petitions.
Blog post
Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how obtaining a business investor permit in Luxembourg can provide significant opportunities for accessing European markets and fostering business growth.